Meet our Interim President: Patrick McWhortor

It is my honor to join you in service to the Sonoran Desert as the Interim President of Desert Foothills Land Trust.



As I carry the baton handed to me by long-time leader Vicki Preston, I am impressed with the extent to which this community of conservationists offers its time, talent, and treasure to our precious mission. From the landowners who have entrusted DFLT with properties for preservation, to the volunteers who passionately share their belief in desert life with the public, to the amazing staff at DFLT who hold our mission dear to their hearts every day… this organization is a cornerstone of our region.

I know this as a long-time resident of the area, having moved to Cave Creek in 1998. Last week, I celebrated 45 years in Arizona, a Midwest transplant, who met my wife and raised three sons in the Sonoran Desert. We love hiking, experiencing our unique Southwest sites, and being engaged with advocates all over town. My career has been mostly in nonprofit leadership, having founded the statewide association for nonprofits, and leading other organizations, such as NPower Arizona, The Cosanti Foundation and Arizona Citizens for the Arts.

I will be working with the Board of Directors to conduct a search to find the next leader of DFLT. While that effort focuses on the future, I am so fortunate to be here during the time when DFLT celebrates its 35th Anniversary. We have so many upcoming events, such as the Cactus Hotel Movie Night, the scintillating Speaker Series, and many hikes, not to mention the Earth Day Anniversary program, that my days and evenings will be very full.

I hope I have the chance to meet you during my period of service. Most of all, I look forward to serving hand in hand with you, loving the land and protecting it for generations to come. Vicki taught me well: It’s not ours, it’s just our turn.

With gratitude,

Patrick McWhortor

Interim President